Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you have a craving that calls for all the comfort of a juicy cheeseburger in a warm, cozy bowl, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. This recipe magically transforms those classic burger flavors into a creamy, cheesy soup that’s perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss. The blend of tender ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender macaroni creates an irresistibly hearty and comforting dish that feels like a big, warm hug at the end of a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s amazing about this recipe is how simple but crucial the ingredients are. Each one brings its own special element, whether it’s that savory base, cheesy smoothness, or the perfect bit of texture to keep every spoonful exciting.

• Ground beef: Choose lean (90%) for rich flavor without too much grease.
• Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to your base flavor.
• Garlic: A little punch of aromatic goodness that brightens the soup.
• Elbow macaroni: The ultimate classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
• Beef broth: Low-sodium is best to control the saltiness while boosting meaty richness.
• Diced tomatoes: With their juices intact, they add color and a subtle tang.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it’s the star of the creamy finish.
• Milk: Whole or 2%, it makes the soup silky smooth.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami depth and a hint of tang.
• Paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky note.
• Olive oil: Perfect for browning the beef and creating a flavor foundation.

How to Make Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything together for about 5 to 7 minutes until the beef has beautifully browned and the onions soften into a translucent sweetness. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat here; it keeps your soup from getting greasy and lets the flavors shine through.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Once your beef and aromatics are perfectly prepped, transfer everything into the crockpot. Pour in the low-sodium beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Give it all a good stir so the flavors start mingling and friends can’t help but peek in anticipation.

Step 3: Slow Cook for Flavor Harmony

Set the crockpot to low and let the magic unfold over 4 to 6 hours; this slow simmer lets every ingredient release its character and blend into a rich, well-rounded base. If you’re short on time, the high setting works for 2 to 3 hours, but that slow low heat truly elevates the soup’s depth.

Step 4: Add the Macaroni and Milk

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and milk. Cover and continue cooking until the pasta is perfectly tender, which should take around 20 to 30 minutes. This step ensures your macaroni absorbs those vibrant flavors and the milk adds a luscious, creamy texture.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Turn off the crockpot, grab your shredded cheddar cheese, and stir it in gently until the soup becomes irresistibly creamy and cheesy. Now your Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is ready to serve – warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying.

How to Serve Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Garnishes

Enhance your Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with toppings that add flavor and crunch. Whisked sour cream dollops or chopped green onions bring freshness and tang. Crispy bacon bits or shredded extra cheddar cheese offer a delicious contrast in texture. Freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add that extra pop of flavor that makes every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with warm, buttery garlic bread or soft dinner rolls perfect for dunking. A crisp, green salad can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the rich, cheesy soup. If you want to keep it classic, simple potato chips or crunchy pickles on the side create a playful texture contrast that makes the meal more dynamic and fun.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or just to impress your family, serve the Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic touch. Layer the soup in clear glass mugs to show off all the vibrant colors and textures. You can also turn it into a casserole by mixing the soup with extra pasta, topping with breadcrumbs and cheese, then baking until golden—perfect for a comforting twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic lunch option the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, although the pasta might become a touch softer after thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider undercooking the macaroni slightly before mixing it in. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back that creamy consistency. For the best texture, add a little extra shredded cheese after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese for the soup?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoky gouda to give your Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup a unique twist. Just make sure your cheese melts well for that creamy texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes! You can swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or hearty lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add sautéed mushrooms or chopped veggies like carrots and celery for extra flavor and texture.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

You sure can. You can complete all the steps up to adding the cheese, then refrigerate the soup base. When ready to serve, reheat gently and stir in the cheese last so it stays fresh and gooey.

How spicy is Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

By default, it’s mild and perfect for all palates, but you can easily spice it up by adding cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños during the cooking process to suit your heat preference.

What can I add for extra veggies?

Chopped carrots, celery, bell peppers, or spinach work wonderfully added in with the broth and tomatoes. They sneak in nutrition and add delightful color and crunch without overpowering the comforting cheeseburger taste.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is one of those feel-good meals that manages to be both effortless and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want to cozy up with hearty comfort food, this recipe delivers every time. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to that you’ll want to make again and again.